Friday June 6 Day 1-: Depart Calgary on your overnight flight to Madrid. Lufthansa flight #495 depart Calgary 2:45pm Arrive Frankfurt 7:55am Lufthansa flight #4414 depart Frankfurt1:15pm Arrive Madrid 3:45pm Saturday June 7 Day 2-: Madrid (D) Upon arrival to the Madrid Airport, you will be greeted by your bilingual tour escort and transfer to the hotel by coach. Remainder of the day is free for you to settle in or you may wish to take part in an optional outing (optional outings will vary during different months of the year. Dinner and overnight in the hotel. Gran Hotel Colon 4* Sunday June 8 Day 3 - : Madrid (B, L, D) Admire the most significant avenues, streets and squares of Madrid during a half day panoramic city tour with English speaking local guide. Buildings and monuments such as a visit to the Royal Palace, a beautiful exponent of the 18 th Century and one and the best preserved in Europe, are destinations of this city tour. The Royal Palace also has the distinction of being the largest royal palace in Western Europe in size, with over a combined area of over 135,000 m² and more than 2,800 rooms. On Sundays, the Prado Museum can be visited free of charge. Enjoy lunch and Tapas Dinner at local Restaurants. Overnight in Madrid. Monday June 9 Day 4 -: Madrid (B, L, D) Today after breakfast, you will travel by coach for a full day excursion to Avila & Segovia. Avila is most known for the medieval city walls, that were constructed of brown granite in 1090, and surmounted by a breastwork, with eighty-eight towers and nine gateways, are still in excellent repair, but a large part of the city lies beyond their perimeter. Ávila is the seat of a bishop and contains several ecclesiastical buildings of great interest. The Gothic cathedral, built between the 12th and 14th centuries, has the appearance of a fortress, with embattled walls and two solid towers. It contains many interesting sculptures and paintings, besides one especially fine silver pyx, the work of Juán de Arfe, dating from 1571. The town is more renowned for St. Teresa of Ávila, the Carmelite reformer who lived there twelve centuries later (c. 1515-1582). A convent and church mark the supposed birthplace of Santa Teresa. Segovia is spectacularly situated atop a long, narrow promontory. It contains a wealth of monuments, including the cathedral, a famous ancient Roman aqueduct, the Alcázar, and various churches built in the Romanesque style including San Esteban, San Martin, and San Millan. The old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is surrounded by walls built in the 8th century AD, probably on a Roman base, and rebuilt extensively during the 15th century. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Segovia. Return to Madrid for Dinner and overnight.
Tuesday June 10 Day 5 -: Madrid - Toledo - Cordoba (B, L, D) Today travel through La Mancha, the land of "Don Quixote". First, stop in Toledo for a guided city tour including a walking tour of the old city. Toledo was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 for its extensive cultural and monumental heritage as one of the former capitals of the Spanish Empire and place of coexistence of Christian, Jewish and Moorish cultures. Next, visit the Cathedral, one of the most highly regarded in Spain, the Synagogue of the Transit constructed in 1336 and Santo Tomé Church housing one of the most famous paintings of El Greco: The Burial of the Count of Orgaz. Then, the journey continues to Cordoba, crossing La Mancha, an arid, but fertile, elevated plateau (610m) of central Spain, south of Madrid, stretching between the Montes (mountains) de Toledo and the Sierra Morena mountain range. En-route, stop at a typical Castilian restaurant for a cheese tasting and lunch. Dinner and overnight in Cordoba. Hotel Occidental 4* Wednesday June 11 Day 6 -: Cordoba Costa del Sol (B, L, D) This morning, visit Cordoba, another jewel declared by the UNESCO Heritage of Mankind : The panoramic tour shows the Roman Bridge displaying the restoration work performed by the Muslims and the Juderia (Jewish Quarter), with its Synagogue. Abderrahman 1 st initiated in the 8 th Century the construction of the Mosque, one of the most emblematic buildings of Islamic Art. Extended on various occasions, for the last time by Almanzor on the 10 th Century. It is a fascinating building which offers surprising light and colour effects as well as beautiful doors and nearly a thousand columns. The Cathedral of Gothic, Baroque and Plateresque elements were all built inside in the 16 th Century. After lunch at a local Restaurant, continue to the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol 4* for dinner and overnight. Thursday June 12 Day 7 -: Costa del Sol. (B, L, D) Excursion 2 Days to Jerez Sevilla and Ronda (with overnight in Seville). Although you are going to sleep tonight in Seville, you keep your room in Costa del Sol. Depart by coach South to the Province of Cadiz. Our first visit in Jerez is at one of the most famous Wine Cellar s, Gonzalez Byass, to see and admire the Royal Cellar of the Schell built by Gustave Eiffel, a film of the history of the wine in Jerez and the Cellar of the Apostles with cask of more than 300 years. The Cellar of the Kings, the Constance Cellar and finally a sherry wine tasting will be offered. Afterwards is a visit to the Royal School of Equestrian Art to attend the show, Those Amazing Dancing Andalusian Horses, a fully fledged equestrian ballet. This show features choreography adapted from the training exercises of classical dressage and doma vaquera, with traditional Spanish music and costumes which date back to the 18th century. After lunch at a local Restaurant, continue to Sevilla. Dinner, Flamenco Show and overnight in Seville. Hotel Fernando III 4*
Friday June 13 Day 8 -: Costa del Sol (B, L, D) After breakfast, enjoy a half day guided tour of the monumental city of Seville. Visit the beautiful gardens at Maria Luisa Park, the Plaza de España and then a walking tour through the typical and delightful district of Santa Cruz. This tour includes a visit to the Cathedral (15th C.) the largest Gothic Church in Christendom, with its magnificent chancel, carvings by Martinez Montañez and painting by Murillo, Zurbaran and Goya. Of the Almohade Aljama Mosque (12 C.) there remains its striking minaret, the slenderest tower in Muslim architecture - the "Giralda", to which an exquisite bell tower was added in the 16th Century. By mid-day, depart to Ronda for lunch at a local Restaurant. After lunch, city tour to admire part of its defences (ramparts, towers, Gate of Almocábar). The small Guadalevin river passes through the Town, dividing it in two, its course having created the 100 m deep El Tajo Gorge, which is today one of the most distinguishing features of this City. Also visit the historic Bullring, the oldest in Spain (1785), constructed in stone and its adjoining Museum of Bullfighting Art and History and the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria La Mayor. It is an interesting building due to its complexity, since the Gothic Church and the colossal Renaissance Church are built upon an Arab site using the remains of what was the Mosque. Continue on to our hotel in the Costa del Sol. Dinner and accommodation at the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol 4* Saturday June 14 Day 9 -: Costa del Sol (B, L, D) Full day tour to Gibraltar. A British Colony since 1713, Gibraltar is located near the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. The territory shares a border with Spain to the north. Gibraltar has historically been an important base for the British Armed Forces and is the site of a Royal Navy base. It is often described as the shopping centre of the Western Mediterranean with a large range of shops offering a vast selection of goods. A tour is probably the easiest way to see the most spectacular sights on the Rock: St. Michael s Cave, situated at a height of approximately 300m above sea level, this is one of Europe s most dramatic natural grottoes, a remarkable example of natural architecture. The Ape s Den, the Apes are tailless monkeys properly known as Barbary Macaques. They roam freely along the upper rock. These endearing creatures will enchant you with their antics. They are perhaps the best known of Gibraltar s attractions. Lunch in Gibraltar. Return to Costa del Sol for dinner and overnight. Sunday June 15 Day 10 -: Costa del Sol. (B, L, D) Today you have the option of having a full day at leisure to explore, relax or shop! Optional excursions can be arranged. The escort will have information about what is available! Optional Tour to Tangier can be arranged with a minimum of 15 participants. Option of Golfing. Lunch & Dinner and accommodation at the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol.
Monday June 16 Day 11 -: Costa del Sol Granada (B, L, D) After breakfast, depart by coach for Granada. A slight detour will take you to Alfarnate for a visit to an "Almazara", which is a rural factory producing olive oil. Taste a selection of different oils with fresh farm bread. Then walk through the urban centre of Alfarnatejo, a beautiful and small village at 850 m above sea level, where only 500 people reside. These streets are always of interest to visitors. The most remarkable buildings are the Parish Church of Santo Cristo de Cabrilla (18 th Century) and the square tower built of fired bricks in the Mudejar style. A warm welcome with a glass of an exquisite sweet wine of the Region will be offered, meanwhile in the village square the local women wait to take the travellers to their own houses (groups of 6/8 people) where they will serve lunch a unique sample of the excellent gastronomy of the area - together with their families. After lunch we continue to Granada. Dinner and overnight in Granada. Hotel Carmen 4* Tuesday June 17 Day 12 -:Granada Alicante (B, L, D) a.m.city tour including a guided visit to the Alhambra (13th 15th Century), a fortified palatine city, built by the Nasrid Kings, which also includes its Alcazaba Citadel and the Palaces of Los Leones and Comares. The Generalife, a summer residence set in beautiful gardens and the so called Royal Room of Santo Domingo built in the orchards of Almaxarra. The Palace of Alcazar Genil, used by the Nasride Queens. The Palace of Charles 5th, designed in 1526 by Pedro Machuca in the heart of the Alhambra as a symbol of new power, in the most outstanding Renaissance work in Granada and possibly in Spain. Lunch en route. By mid-day, we travel through Spain's amazing landscape viewing rolling hills dotted with picturesque olive and orange groves before arriving in Alicante on the Mediterranean Costa Blanca. Dinner and overnight in Alicante. Hotel Melia 4* Wednesday June 18 Day 13 -: Alicante - Valencia (B, L, D) Alicante has the majority of its historical attractions located within its Old Quarter, a settlement which can trace its origins back to late Roman times, all accessible on foot. The best starting point is from the Cathedral to enter into a labyrinth of narrow walkways where the Church of Santa Maria and the Town Hall stand next to the lively bars and terraces of el Barrio. After a guided walking tour of Alicante, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we journey north along the beautiful Costa Blanca to Valencia, Spain s third largest city. Dinner and overnight in Valencia. Hotel Confortel Aqua 4*
Thursday June 19 Day 14 -: Valencia - Barcelona (B, L, D) Morning sightseeing tour, to view the highlights of this historical city, such as City Council, the incredible Arts and Science City designed by contemporary architect Santiago Calatrava, as well as the Torres de Serrano and Torres de Quart medieval city gates. A visit to the Gothic Cathedral, where construction began in 1262 on the site of an ancient mosque is also a part of this morning s tour. The tour to Valencia would not be complete without a stop at Lonja, the old Silk Exchange, recognized by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful buildings of European civil Gothic architecture. After the guided tour of Valencia, we the journey continues to Barcelona, the Capital of Catalonia. Lunch en route. Dinner and overnight in Barcelona. Hotel Confortel Barcelona 4* Friday June 20 Day 15 -: Barcelona (B, L, D) This morning, enjoy a half day guided tour through the streets of Barcelona. This panoramic tour includes the most historic avenues and squares of Barcelona. Sights include: Gothic Quarter, Olympic Port, Montjuich etc... This is a compendium of the most representative architecture from towns and cities all over Spain. Entrance to the Cathedral and to the Pueblo Español (Spanish Village) are also a part of this morning s activities. Have lunch at a local restaurant. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner and Overnight in Barcelona. Saturday June 21 Day 16 -: Barcelona (B) Transfer to the Airport for the early morning departure flight to Canada. Lufthansa flight #4465 depart Barcelona 7:00am Arrive Frankfurt 9:10am Lufthansa flight #494 depart Frankfurt 11:10am Arrive Calgary 12:50am
INCLUDED IN THE COST OF THIS TOUR: Airfare Calgary/Madrid return Barcelona/Calgary All transportation as outlined in the day-to-day itinerary Services of Rainbow consultants before departure including materials and meetings Tips and Gratitude s for Bus Driver, Escorts and Guides ($140) Airport Tax ($350) Full time Spanish Bi-Lingual escort Continental Breakfast, lunches and dinners daily with a glass of wine 14 nights Tourist Class Accommodation in 4* Hotels Entrances and guided sightseeing tours as outlined in the day-to-day itinerary Entrance to the Royal Palace Entrance to the Prado Museum Entrance to Gothic Cathedral and Saint Theresa s Church in Avila Entrance to the Gothic Cathedral and the Alcazar Palace/Fortress in Segovia Entrance to the Cathedral, the Synagogue and Santo church in Toledo Entrance to the show Those Amazing Dancing Andalusian Horses Entrance to Dinner and Flamenco Show in Seville Entrance to the Cathedral and the Giralda Bell Tower Entrance to the Oldest Bullfighting ring Ronda and the Museum of Bullfighting Art and History Entrance to the Almazara for Olive Oil tasting Entrance to the Parish Church of Santo Cristo de Cabrilla Entrance to the Alhambra in Granada Entrance to the Gothic Cathedral in Valencia Entrance to Lonja, the Old Silk Exchange in Valencia Entrance to the Cathedral and to the Pueblo Espanol (Spanish Village) in Barcelona Tapas Dinner in Madrid Cheese tasting in a typical Castilian Restaurant near Toledo Sherry wine tasting at Jerez at the famous Wine Cellar Gonzalez Byass Lunch in a typical family home in Alfarnatejo a small Spanish Village Guided tours as per day-to-day itinerary Full Day tour to Gibraltar 1 half day guide in Madrid 1 full day guided sight seeing in Avila & Segovia 1 half day guide in Toledo 1 half day guide in Cordoba 1 half day guide in Seville 1 half day guide in Ronda 1 half day guide in Granada 1 half day guide in Alicante 1 half day guide in Valencia 1 half day guide in Barcelona
NOT INCLUDED IN THE COST OF THIS TOUR: Expenses of a personal nature Passport and Visa Fees (if necessary) Extra Beverages with meals other than what is supplied Optional tours, excursions and activities Single supplements for any single hotel room accommodation required ($735.00) Comprehensive Insurance: Excess Medical, Trip Cancellation, Baggage and Default (approx $250 for those up to 59 years of age) Fuel surcharges imposed by airlines or any new taxes Any drastic shift in the exchange rate Any additional taxes imposed by any authority before departure PRICE PER PERSON (based on double occupancy) $4889.00